Henry Franklin Clark II was no stranger to adversity.

He had a rough start. His father was shot and killed when Clark was 7-years-old. His mother lost custody, which was awarded to his grandparents. His grandparents, as well as his aunt and uncle, Phil and Ann Gillet, raised him. By the time he was in high school he hit a rough patch when he began experimenting with drugs.

But in 1990, he became a member of Valley Baptist Church. He finished high school and began attending Bakersfield College to become a drug and alcohol counselor.

Clark was playing guitar in Campus Center on Sept. 12 when he had a seizure and later died. His death came as a shock to friends and family. His cause of death is pending toxicology tests, according to the county coroner’s office. Toxicology reports will take several weeks.

He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Debi; his son, Brandon; and his dog, Amadeus Mozart.

Clark treasured his family, and was especially proud of his 16-year-old son, Brandon.

“He was a proud father. Anyone who talked to him knew he was devoted to his son,” said Phillip Gillet Jr., Clark’s cousin.

Clark would have had his degree within a year, according to his cousin. It was “something he always wanted,” said Gillet. His family has requested that his degree be awarded posthumously.

When a degree is awarded, the recipient must be close to completing all requirements. The process involves going over student records and a degree can be given in a subject different from the student’s major if the transcripts indicate all necessary courses were met, said Sue Vaughn, director of enrollment services. In Clark’s situation, a death certificate must be presented and the person listed as next of kin may access Clark’s school record, she said.

“It’s not outright impossible,” said Vaughn, although she explained that academic policies must be followed even though officials are sympathetic to the family.

If unable to obtain the degree, Gillet is understanding of the school’s position.

“It would be a disappointment, but life goes on,” he said.